During a reward challenge, the newly single actress, 49, (who's become a surprisingly resilient competitor) ends up wrestling with sex therapist Denise Stapley, who is arguably the strongest woman in the entire competition.

According to CBS, Whelchel and her fellow competitors will also make Survivor history on Wednesday night's episode, when opposing tribes begin bargaining in the middle of a challenge.

For those who prefer to remember Lisa Whelchel in all her '80s glory, check out this exclusive personal backstage photo of herself with Nancy McKeon and a mullet-ed George Clooney that she's shared with PEOPLE.

From left: Nancy McKeon, George Clooney and Lisa Whelchel, in their Facts of Life days